Think Small and Generation Next implemented the Parent Aware Retention Incentive program in early 2017. The purpose of the incentive is to retain and reward Parent Aware–rated licensed family child care providers in the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul for their commitment to quality as measured by Parent Aware. Tiered retention incentives mean that higher-rated providers receive a larger incentive: 3- and 4-star programs receive $1,000 per year, and 1- and 2-star programs receive $500 per year. The retention incentive was made in two payments, half in January and half in July. In addition, unlike the state Quality Improvement grants, these incentives are not reimbursements for expenses already incurred but are intentionally set up to support providers in whatever way they choose. As we realized the impacts of significant program closures, we needed to stabilize and maintain high quality programs.
